The seasonal influenza vaccination is now available across the province. The Department of Health and Community Services reminds residents that the most effective way to protect against influenza viruses is with a flu shot, in combination with thorough hand washing, which is part of the simple rule of Clean, Cover and Contain.

"The influenza virus tends to spread faster during the winter months when people spend more time indoors and in closer contact with others," said Dr. Faith Stratton, Chief Medical Officer of Health for Newfoundland and Labrador. "Immunization is the best protection and most effective way to protect people of all ages from getting influenza."

The vaccine is provided at no cost for individuals at high risk for complications from influenza, including:

• Adults and children with chronic conditions requiring regular medical or hospital care such as respiratory disorders, cardiac disease, renal disease, metabolic disorders and arthritis;
• Staff and individuals living in residential care;
• Health care workers, including those in community and chronic care facilities;
• Individuals age 65 years and over;
• Children age six months to 48 months of age;
• Aboriginal people;
• Pregnant women, particularly those in the third trimester;
• Essential services staff;
• Poultry and swine workers; and,
• Household contacts or caregivers of people at high risk who cannot themselves be immunized.

The typical influenza season in Newfoundland and Labrador runs from December to April. This year's seasonal influenza vaccination protects against three types of influenza, including two types of influenza A, one of which is the H1N1 virus, and one influenza B virus.

Flu symptoms usually include rapid onset of cough, fever, headache, chills and general body aches and pains. Although influenza is not usually a serious illness, it can lead to other complications such as pneumonia and even possibly death.

"Influenza is easily spread from person to person from air-born particles from coughs and sneezes," said Dr. Stratton. "Practicing good hygiene such as frequent hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes and staying home when sick, can help prevent the spread of influenza."

Those wishing to be vaccinated should watch for local announcements or contact their local public health office or a family physician for information on clinic schedules. For further information on the influenza vaccination, individuals should contact the Regional Health Authority in their area.

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